Connections Magazine, Fall 2024

Connections

MAGAZINE OF THE EPISCOPAL ACADEMY

MEET EA’S INSPIRING ALUMNI OLYMPIANS BLUE & WHITE GOING FOR GOLD

Students show off their creativity during ArtsFest.

The Episcopal Academy 1785 Bishop White Drive Newtown Square, PA 19073 Office of Communication

484-424-1478

mgodin@episcopalacademy.org

Office of Alumni Engagement

484-424-1772 alumni@episcopalacademy.org

Editor-in-Chief: Michele Godin

Contributing Editors:

Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau, Hon. P ’16 ‘19

Kate Andris, Hon.

Jessica Siso

Angeliqué Israel ’07

Kathryn Ercole

Contributing Photographers:

Ellen Erikson

Patty

James

Lauren

USOPC

Lindsey Wasson, Associated Press

Getty: Dania Maxwell, Los Angeles Times

Getty: Carl Recine

Ashley Sessa ‘22

Jovana Sekulic ‘21

Ivan Puskovitch ‘19

Angeliqué Israel ’07

Courtney Brinkerhoff-Rau, Hon. P ’16 ‘19

Jessica Siso

Design: Open Haus Studio

Production: The Chambers Group

T.J.’S TAKE

The Role of Athletics at EA

This summer, I had the chance to visit the USA Olympic Training Center while attending the Heads Collegiate Forum at Colorado College. It was amazing to walk the halls where some of our country’s most-decorated athletes spend time training. The experience had me even more excited to cheer on our FOUR incredible alumni who competed for Team USA in Paris.

With 20,000+ high schools in the United States and 500+ American Olympians at the Games, EA tied for the high school sending the most alumni to the 2024 Olympics. For a school of our size, this honor is really something special.

Nick, Ivan, Jovana, and Ashley gave it their all on the world stage, proudly representing both Team USA and our school. They serve as an inspiration to our current students who watched in awe and contemplated how that could maybe be them one day. In this issue, we are thrilled to share more about their accomplishments and journey.

I also sat down with our Olympians recently to hear more about their experiences in Paris for our EA Unlocked podcast series. It was heartwarming to hear them reflect on how our school prepared them. Common themes were rooted in EA’s ability to help develop mental resilience, perseverance, and selfdiscipline. Some spoke of how being pushed beyond their limits at EA helped them to believe they could face and overcome any challenge.

Athletics are a part of the ethos at EA. Some new families are surprised when they learn about our policy, which asks students to participate in multiple team sports during their time in Middle School and Upper School. In this age of burgeoning sports specialization and new financial incentives, many also question our commitment to the multi-sport athlete.

When we think about our commitment to Mind, Body, and Spirit, our athletics program plays a critical role. We believe the invaluable lessons learned through participation extend well beyond the here and now and set our students up for success in the future.

I am proud that EA still requires athletic participation, and we work hard to promote the value of the multi-sport athlete. Besides the documented health advantages for athletes, having students participate in multiple seasons improves our “after 3pm” learning environment and makes our school a better and more interesting place. I admit it is an uphill battle at times, but we are holding to it.

I am privileged to have the opportunity to meet fascinating individuals from a myriad of sectors. Some years ago, I had the chance to converse with the CEO of Zynga, the company behind the oncefamous online game “Words With Friends.” When I inquired about what he looks for when hiring people, his response was a little unexpected. He said he prioritizes individuals who played sports in college, citing their remarkable success in the professional

realm. This same theme was also shared by other executives I met while teaching a leadership course during our experiential learning May Term program last spring.

For those who might not love athletics, this insight extends beyond sports. It encompasses music, acting, robotics, or any pursuit demanding unwavering commitment. The common thread is the capacity to work diligently, surmount obstacles, navigate uncertainty, exhibit resilience, seize opportunities, and prioritize the collective over the individual. CEOs have long recognized these traits as predictors of success.

EA can be challenging. Our faculty, coaches, and advisors push students to excel and live up to their potential. I often tell students that we know there may have been moments when they longed for an easier path. We believe that EA’s rigorous environment and culture help to prepare students not only for college, but for life.

In a world where younger generations often face stereotyped criticism for being overly concerned with job titles, rapid promotions, and maximizing time off, we aim to teach the intrinsic value of hard work and perseverance. We want students to recognize the value of trying new things and working as a team. We want to help develop essential skills like time management, critical thinking, effective communication, and the wisdom to rely on the brilliance of those around you.

All of this work at EA is grounded in our core values: the holistic development of Mind, Body, and Spirit; the authenticity embodied by Esse Quam Videri; and the integrity symbolized by living the Stripes.

Many schools aspire to send future leaders into the world. At EA, we don’t merely hope—we know. We know that our students will lead. This was evident in Paris this summer and in the everyday success stories we hear about all of our alumni.

Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. The Greville Haslam Head of School

AURORA OR VESPER?

The Aurora/Vesper tradition continues! All students participated in fun competitions this year, practicing the Stripe of Sportsmanship along the way. In May, Lower School students took to Smith Field for a thrilling afternoon of field day activities. From tug-of-war to various relay races to the beloved handstand contest, students worked together to proudly represent their team. Are you Team Aurora or Team Vesper?

BLUE & WHITE GOING FOR GOLD

BY COURTNEY BRINKERHOFF-RAU, HON. P ’16, ’19

Listen in as our EA Olympians share more about their time in Paris.

Episcopal Academy was well represented at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Two-time Olympian Nick Mead ’13 powered the men’s four to gold, the first for the men’s four since 1960. Nick was also selected by his peers to serve as Team USA Closing Ceremony flag bearer alongside 14-time Olympic medalist and swimmer Katie Ledecky. Ivan Puskovitch ’19 plowed through the Seine River in the open water 10km marathon swim. Jovana Sekulic ’21 played center for Team USA Women’s Water Polo, and Ashley Sessa ’22 was a critical forward/midfielder for USA Field Hockey.

“We are incredibly proud of our alumni,” beamed Athletic Director Todd Fairlie, Hon. “They were leaders during their years with us at EA, and they made us proud again on the world stage. Sending four alumni to the Olympics is a testament to our teacher/coach/mentor model, as well as our commitment to supporting student-athletes at all levels.”

EA’s Former Athletic Director, Field Hockey Coach, and 1984 Olympian Gina Buggy, Hon. spent the week in Paris cheering on Team USA and EA alumni.

“For a school of our size, it is astounding to have four former EA athletes competing in the same Olympics!” shared Coach Buggy. “I was overcome with pride for our alumni, our athletic program and coaches, and our school.”

Carl Recine/Getty Images

NICK MEAD ’13

Since 1960, USRowing had been chasing the Olympic dream of gold in the men’s four, the priority and most competitive race in international competitions. On Aug. 1, that dream came true as Nick Mead ’13 and his teammates plowed through the waters of the state-of-the-art Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium in Paris.

With Great Britain gaining momentum, Nick’s teammate Liam Corrigan shouted, “Red!” Nick sat in the powerful bow seat as he and his teammates picked up the pace. With a final push in the last 200 meters, the American men held the lead, edging New Zealand by 0.85 seconds, and crossing the finish line with a winning time of 5:49.03.

“We had the confidence that we could do this even when no one really believed in us,” Nick shared with NBC10.

“There wasn’t really a precedent for us winning this event. We were willing to try anything, do anything, and that was always our mentality. Wake up, go to practice, and do whatever it takes to get a little bit better.”

“I texted Nick before the preliminary heat and before the grand final,” recalled EA Classics Teacher and Rowing Coach Molly Konopka, Hon. “I just told him to be confident and enjoy the excitement.”

Nick, a lifer at EA, launched his rowing career as a freshman.

“I did get him to step over from the lacrosse team, which he agonized over,” shared Coach Konopka. “I just thought he had more opportunities to be a great rower. He got off the erg one day after a test, and I remember saying he could end up on the national team. He laughed, and I laughed, but I meant it!”

As team captain his senior year, Nick’s four with coxswain won the 2013 Scholastic Rowing Association of America (nationals) title just a week after the tragic loss of teammate Paul Pratt ’14. Nick earned the Mind, Body, Spirit Award twice and the 2013 Oar Award, lettered in football, served as class vice president, and was awarded the Class of 1877 Award his senior year.

Nick is no stranger to competing on the world stage. After much success at EA, he rowed at Princeton University, where he led the team to multiple medals and accolades. Post college, Nick competed with the U.S. national team and rowed at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics in the men’s eight, where they missed a bronze medal by a fraction of a second.

In 2021 and 2023, Nick was named USRowing Athlete of the Year. This year in Paris, a surprise accolade was being chosen by his peers to serve as a Team USA flag bearer at the Closing Ceremony, the first rower to ever hold the honor.

When not on the water, Nick works for Peloton in supply chain management in New York City.

“HE GOT OFF THE ERG ONE DAY AFTER A TEST, AND I REMEMBER SAYING THAT HE COULD END UP ON THE NATIONAL TEAM. HE LAUGHED AND I LAUGHED, BUT I MEANT IT!”

“I’M HONORED TO REPRESENT TEAM USA AND THE EA COMMUNITY ON THIS STAGE.”

IVAN PUSKOVITCH ’19

“Live in the moment!” reflected Ivan Puskovitch ’19 a few days before the biggest race of his life. “I’m honored to represent Team USA and the EA community on this stage.”

Ivan took the plunge as the sole American male swimmer in the open water 10-kilometer swim. “It was definitely unlike anything else I’ve ever competed in,” said Ivan. “That current [in the Seine] is like no other, especially when we were going around those turns on the short stretches and had a wall of water coming at you from the side.”

Ivan finished 19th overall with a time of one hour, 57 mins, 52.5 seconds, and was only the fifth American man to swim the marathon since it was added to the Olympics in 2008.

“I’m very proud of the tactical approach to the race. I think that I was making up a lot of ground on some areas that my competitors were kind of lacking,” he recalled after the grueling race. “I have no regrets about my performance because my coaches and I talked extensively about the race plan, the conditions of the race, and the best way to adapt to them. I stuck to that plan, and I think it really paid off in my ability to fight to the last stroke.”

“We are so proud of Ivan and everything he has accomplished!” said EA Swimming and Diving Coach Brian Kline, Hon. “Ivan helped foster an environment of goals and aspirations for everyone. He trained mornings, nights, [and] weekends, and made sure he worked through the highs and lows every day.”

An All-American, four-time All-Delco, and the 2019 Daily Times Boys Swimmer of the Year, Ivan helped the boys’ swim and dive team earn their first Inter-Ac Championship in 49 years during his senior year. He broke countless school and pool records, in addition to setting the Delaware County record in the 500 free. During high school, he also continued competing in open water events and was the 2018 US Junior National Champion in the 7.5km race.

“Ivan’s impact on the EA team was paramount in helping to drive a passion for hard work and winning amongst his teammates,” said Coach Kline. “We could not be prouder to see the hard work and dedication to the sport of swimming pay off for Ivan. Watching him on the world stage was an emotional experience.”

The 10km took place two days before the end of the Games, so Ivan had plenty of time to immerse himself in the Olympic experience. “Since arriving in Paris, I’ve met so many federations from countries I haven’t seen at competitions before!” he shared. He was also thrilled to meet 76er Joel Embiid and to connect with Nick Mead ’13 and Jovana Sekulic ’21.

Ivan is now back in California and taking a break from training but looking forward to future competitions.

JOVANA SEKULIC ’21

Water polo player Jovana Sekulic ’21 was all smiles as she made her Olympic debut in Paris. While the talented center scored two goals in the team’s opener against Greece (15-6) and the three-time defending gold medalist team won four of their seven games, they came up short against the Netherlands in the battle for bronze.

Lauren Berry Maloney ’10, former EA coach and friend, traveled to Paris to cheer on Jovana and USA Women’s Water Polo at the Paris Aquatic Centre and Paris La Defense Arena. Along with Jovana’s family, Lauren sported a #12 swim cap during the contests.

“It was absolutely surreal to see her play at the Olympics,” remarked Coach Maloney. “I had tremendous pride for how well she played, including scoring several goals and drawing many ejections. I had even more pride for her making it to that point. It was a grueling year of training, and I was so happy that she was able to see her hard work pay off. I wouldn’t and couldn’t miss it!”

“I had goosebumps and was very emotional when she first saw action during the USA’s first game against Greece,” said Maddi (Moore) DeMund ’10, former EA water polo coach. “Jovana was always very vocal about her dreams, and there was never a day of coaching her where I questioned her ability to make her dreams a reality.”

Jovana was born in Belgrade, Serbia, and moved to the Philadelphia area when she was 11 years old. She jumped into life at EA in 8th grade. “She was already a very well-established player with a wealth of foundational water polo knowledge,” said Coach DeMund. “In the three years I coached her, I witnessed Jovana grow tremendously as a leader and teammate.”

The accomplished water polo player helped lead EA to the Eastern Prep Championship. She was named the tournament MVP in 2018 and 2019. Jovana continues to play for Princeton University, where she earned All-American honors her freshman year. She was the Tigers’ top scorer for the 2023 season with 76 goals. Jovana also played on the U.S. team at the last two World Championships, scoring four times in the last match in Doha to help win the gold.

“I always knew Jovana was going to reach whatever goal she set out for herself. She is such a well-rounded athlete because as tough and strong as she is physically, she is even stronger mentally,” said Coach DeMund.

Jovana resumed her studies at Princeton University this fall.

“IT WAS A GRUELING YEAR OF TRAINING, AND I WAS SO HAPPY THAT SHE WAS ABLE TO SEE HER HARD WORK PAY OFF.”

“MY ONLY ADVICE TO ASHLEY WAS TO ENJOY EVERY PART OF THIS EXPERIENCE. AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE, FOCUS ON THE VIBE OF YOUR TEAMMATES AND COACHES AND LEAD BY EXAMPLE.”

ASHLEY SESSA ’22

For the first time in eight years, Team USA Women’s Field Hockey stepped back into the Olympic arena with an allrookie team. For 20-year-old Ashley Sessa ’22, the youngest member of the team, competing in the Olympics has been a lifelong goal. “This has been a dream of mine since picking up my very first stick,” Ashley posted online after being named to the team. “I am excited to grow and perform with an amazing group of girls!”

Ashley wasted no time sharing her stellar talents during the team’s opening game against #2 Argentina as she fired in the first Olympic goal for the U.S.

As a member of the 1984 U.S. Women’s Field Hockey team, Former EA Athletic Director and Field Hockey Coach Gina Buggy, Hon. was in Paris to celebrate the 40th anniversary of her team’s bronze medal finish. Coach Buggy and her teammates attended all four games to cheer on Ashley and Team USA.

“The energy and spirit at the field hockey stadium was electric!” said Coach Buggy. “Watching our USA team compete was thrilling, nerve-racking, [and] heartwarming. My only advice to Ashley was to enjoy every part of the experience. As much as possible, focus on the vibe of your teammates and coaches, and lead by example.”

Ashley arrived at EA her sophomore year and quickly made a lasting impact on the field hockey program. She earned two-time All Inter-Ac and All-Delco honors, was named Delco Daily Times Player of the Year in 2021, and was an All-American. At 16, she was selected for the U.S. Women’s National Field Hockey Team.

“Ashley came to EA as a gifted field hockey talent,” recalled Coach Buggy. “She always strived to improve, and she willingly shared her skill and love for the game with her teammates. The stronger the competition, the better she performed. And she always practiced and competed with a real joy for what she was doing.”

After graduation, Ashley headed to the University of North Carolina, where she started every game and played a key role in the team’s undefeated season and NCAA Championship. She also played on the Pan American Elite Team (2023 silver medal), and FIH Pro League (named Player of the Match).

After her freshman year at UNC, Ashley opted for an Olympic redshirt year to train and earn a coveted spot for the Paris Olympics. Team USA was ranked #13 heading into the Games and wrapped up play with a win (1-0) against South Africa. The squad finished 9th overall, going 1-3-1 in pool play.

Ashley resumed her collegiate playing career and studies at Northwestern University this fall.

BE TRANSFORMED

Darrel Francis ‘72 was one of 70+ alumni, faculty, and students who gave an impactful Chapel Talk about the 2023-24 Chapel theme, Be Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind. Our dynamic Chapel program continues to offer the EA community a place to gather, reflect, and learn the value of being a part of something greater than themselves. In addition to beloved Chapels like Scrooge Chapel, Lessons and Carols, Spirit Week Chapel, and Hymnal Chapel, students hear inspirational messages from many speakers throughout the year. This year, classmates and parents shared more about their personal faith traditions; faculty and staff offered personal testimonies of “Why I Keep Coming Back to EA;” and special guests like Father Rob Hagan, O.S.A., Villanova University basketball and football team chaplain, and Liz Scott, co-founder of Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, shared stories of trials and growth. Follow @EAChapel on Instagram for more updates on EA’s Chapel program.

AROUND THE GREEN

FOUR STUDENTS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

After going through the Semifinalist and Finalist rounds, Jason Daum ’24, Michelle Jiang ’24, Gavin Schmidt ’24, and Connor Shanahan ’24 were selected this spring as National Merit Scholarship winners out of a talent pool of 15,000+ Finalists. National Merit Scholarship winners are the Finalists in each state “judged to have the strongest combination of accomplishments, skills, and potential for success in rigorous college studies,” according to the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. In total, 38 EA students were recognized with national academic accolades during the 2023-24 school year.

ASPIRATIONS IN COMPUTING

This spring, four EA students were recognized by the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) for their accomplishments in computer science. Izzy Rozes ‘24 was named a 2024 Philadelphia Area Affiliate Winner, while Michelle Jiang ‘24, Ishani Khanna ‘25, and Isabel Ding ‘27 were selected as 2024 Philadelphia Area Affiliate Honorable Mention awardees of the NCWIT Aspirations in Computing program.

SURROUNDED BY SCIENTISTS

It was a record-setting year for EA student scientists with nearly 60 students participating in the Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) competitions. EA expanded its program last year to include Middle School, and students completed research and projects in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, ecology, engineering, mathematics, microbiology, and psychology. Following great success at the regional competition, 15 students competed at the state level and all won a first or second place award. This spring, students were thrilled to present their work to the community during the 2nd annual STEMposium.

5TH GRADE MATH COMPETITIONS ADD UP TO SUCCESS

This past spring, 5th graders showcased their math skills in three state and national-level math contests, even proudly earning a state title. Ten students worked together to win the Math League Pennsylvania state championship for Division 5, with Will Ma placing 2nd and Anthony Li placing 3rd. Seven EA students qualified and participated in the national Math League tournament held in Houston in June. Additionally, 5th graders Will Ma, Anthony Li, James Yang, Justin Li, and Neo Wang were invited to Chicago for the MathCON competition after earning top scores on a qualifying test. Anthony and Will earned Honorable Mention on the 5th grade MathCON test.

THE TRUTH ABOUT COLLEGE ADMISSION

To help the EA community further navigate the ever-changing higher education landscape, the College Counseling Department welcomed Rick Clark, executive director of strategic student access at Georgia Tech, to campus. During his visit, Rick—a thought leader in college admissions and co-author of The Truth About College Admission—led an array of presentations where he provided insights and tips for Upper School students and families.

MACBEAN BOWL TRADITION LIVES ON

The MacBean Bowl, an annual three-round debate tournament that covers timely topics, returned this spring and brought together a talented group of Upper School debaters and alumni judges. Sponsored by Junto, EA’s oldest club, last year’s competition ended with a lively debate between two teams of seniors arguing for or against whether students should be able to use artificial intelligence (AI) for school assignments. Ultimately, Austin Bouvel ’24, Jason Daum ’24, and Khoa Tran ’24 were crowned 2024 champions. Thank you to alumni judges Dean Avgerinos ‘13, Ishan Bhattacharyya ‘23, Jack Brinker ‘16, Yvvy Chen ‘21, Julia Fay ‘13, Zach LaTour ‘23, Matt London ‘13, and Jimmy McEntee ‘11 for generously sharing your time!

Faculty & Staff News

HAPPY RETIREMENT!

After 16 dedicated years serving the EA community, facilities office manager Karen Celia, Hon. retired at the end of the 2023-24 school year. While primarily serving as the Facilities Office Manager—dutifully managing all incoming work orders, processing arriving shipments, and coordinating all incoming and outgoing mail—she has worn many hats over the years and is very proud to have been a part of the Safety Committee for her entire tenure at EA. Best wishes for a wonderful retirement, Karen!

RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE

In June, seven faculty and staff members were honored with special awards for their outstanding work and dedication to EA.

COACHES OF THE YEAR

In addition to another spectacular, record-breaking year for EA Track & Field, Boys’ Indoor Track & Field Coach Zach Richards, Hon. received statewide recognition by being named Coach of the Year by the Pennsylvania Track & Field Coaches Association (PTFCA). The 2023-24 indoor season marked back-to-back state titles for the boys and the second consecutive year that Coach Richards earned the top coaching award. “It’s flattering,” he said. “I look at it as more of a reflection of the team as a whole. For me, the Coach of the Year is really a team-of-the-year honor.”

In fall 2022, Boys’ Cross Country Coach Jim Farrell ’82 was also named Coach of the Year by MileSplitPA after his squad competed at the Nike Cross Nationals for the first time in EA and Inter-Ac history. “I feel so honored and lucky,” said Coach Farrell. “I know to receive these kinds of honors you need to have really good kids, and we have an abundance of them.”

Alyson Kurz, Hon. Upper School Learning Specialist

Bishop William White Award: Sra. Mireya Yaros, Hon. Upper School Spanish Teacher

Class of 1940 Award: Dr. Melanie Subacus Richard Lounsbery Chair in Classical Studies

OUR NEWEST HONORARY ALUMNI

The EA Alumni Society continued its tradition of celebrating employees who have dedicated 10 years to EA by naming them honorary alumni. In June, Alumni Society President Caroline Waxler ‘89 congratulated 10 teachers and staff members and thanked them for their continued service to EA.

EXPERTS IN THEIR FIELDS

EA faculty and staff are always sharing their expertise!

In February, Assistant Head of School Chris Torino and Academic Dean Kelly Edwards, Hon. shared best practices for “Re-envisioning On-Campus Professional Development” at this year’s National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) annual conference in St. Louis. Director of Institutional Research Josh Berberian also co-presented at the conference on “Institutional Research 101: Getting Started in Mission-Aligned Data Analysis.”

In June, Sr. Associate Directors of College Counseling Lara Grieco and Julie Kerich co-presented at the inaugural Slate.org Summit held at Chicago’s Navy Pier. With counselors and admission officers from across the country in attendance, Lara and Julie presented the feedback they collected from 300+ counselors on how “both sides of the desk” can utilize the Slate platform more effectively to support students in their college admissions journeys.

Edward Breskman

for Faculty:

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

This past spring, we checked in with Retired Math Teacher and Form Dean Cheryl McLauchlan, Hon., Retired Math Teacher, Coach, and Financial Aid Director Tom Kossuth, Hon., and Retired Athletic Director Gina Buggy, Hon. to see what these three beloved former faculty and staff members have been up to since their EA days. Curious about who is learning how to restore furniture, who is a “soccer mom,” and who is helping to manage a golf course pro shop? Scan here or search for EA Unlocked wherever you access your favorite podcasts to listen to their full, entertaining conversation!

Brian

Memorial Fund

Mike McNulty ‘09 Upper School Math Teacher

Sheli Hay Middle School Librarian

Hirtle Innovation Prize: Dr. Katie Colyer Stone Family Science Department Chair

Leslie Virbitsky, Hon. Lower School Administrative Assistant

Professional Staff Excellence Award:

Scan here

2 WEEKS. 31 COURSES. ENDLESS ADVENTURES!

From snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, mangrove planting in the Senegal River, firing pottery vessels in a mobile Raku studio, and learning to make homemade croissants and pasta, to singing on the streets of New Orleans, hearing from notable Philadelphia business leaders, volunteering at local organizations, and exploring the culture of Taiwan, Upper School students spent May Term 2024 engaged in fun experiences and unique learning opportunities. Ten years after the inaugural May Term (2013-14), this signature program continues to provide students with the chance to explore diverse and innovative topics in great depth—on campus, throughout the Delaware Valley, across the country, and around the world.

FROM THE SIDELINES Fall

Three Inter-Ac Championships, three PAISAA Championships, two League MVPs, and the Banner made for a successful fall athletic season. Follow @ea1785_athletics on Instagram for real-time updates throughout the year.

Boys’ Cross Country (9-0 dual meets)

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

The team ran through the season winning all nine of its dual meets. The squad placed 2nd at the Delco Championships and were crowned Inter-Ac and PAISAA champions. The seven senior runners end their EA careers with an impressive 34-0 record in Inter-Ac races.

Girls’ Cross Country

Girls’ XC had a strong season, finishing 3rd in the Inter-Ac and PAISAA Championships. The team ran past rival Agnes Irwin School on EA/ AIS Day (22-37) to help secure the Banner.

Field Hockey (13-11)

The squad battled tough opponents all season and finished 2nd in the Inter-Ac. Notable wins included games against Penn Charter, Germantown Academy, and Springside Chestnut Hill. The season wrapped up with an intense game against rival Agnes Irwin School to win the Banner. Goalie Isabel Andrews ’24 had 100+ saves on the season. Rebecca Block ’26 fired in 15 goals and tallied 21 points.

Football (5-5)

EA football went 5-5 on the season and 3-2 in the Inter-Ac. Michael Cadden ’24 set the single season record with 45 receptions. Quarterback Na’Rome Rayborn ’24 led the team with 19 touchdowns and set a record for most TD passes in a career at EA with 39. I’jaaz Abdul-Malik ’24 led the team in tackles and shared the lead in sacks with AJ Koukou ’24 and Raheem Orr ’25. Zeke Kane ’24 led the team in rushing with 700+ yards.

Boys’ Golf (23-7)

Inter-Ac MVP: Hunter Stetson ’24

Captain Hunter Stetson ‘24 set the record for the lowest scoring average (35.3) in league history and won the inaugural Match-Play Inter-Ac

Championship. Of the six league tournaments, Liam Crowley ’27 was the first EA freshman to win a league invitational, as he tied for the low round with an even par, 35. The team earned 2nd place in the Inter-Ac.

Boys’ Soccer (10-9-1)

Boys’ soccer wrapped up the season 3rd in the Inter-Ac. Highlights included a 1-0 win over The Haverford School, and the team’s two goalies had five shutouts.

Girls’ Soccer (19-2-1)

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Inter-Ac League MVP: Natalie Magnotta ’24 Daily Times Player of the Year: Natalie Magnotta ’24

This talented squad won both the Inter-Ac and PAISAA Championships, going 19-2-1 overall. Captain Natalie Magnotta was named League MVP and Player of the Year. The team set a team record with 15 shutouts.

Girls’ Tennis (19-1)

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Girls’ tennis aced its season with Inter-Ac and PAISAA Championships and was undefeated in league play. The top three singles players went 29-4 in their Inter-Ac matches. This marks the sixth consecutive year the squad has won the league title. The graduating seniors tallied a winning percentage of over 93% and three consecutive undefeated Inter-Ac titles.

Boys’ (5-7) and Girls’ (7-12) Water Polo

The boys tallied a 5-7 record with one win in the Inter-Ac. The young team had a gritty win over Malvern Prep and is looking forward to more growth next season. The girls played to 2nd at the Beast of the East Tournament. The squad finished 7-12. Offensively, the team was galvanized by 114 goals from Talia Thomas ’25.

FROM THE SIDELINES Winter

A

2023-24

Boys’ Basketball (15-11)

Daily Times Player of the Year: Kevin McCarthy ’24

The team made a strong run in league games and played to the quarterfinals in the state tournament. Kevin McCarthy left his mark on EA basketball with over 1,500 career points.

Girls’ Basketball (10-11)

The team had notable wins against Agnes Irwin School, Baldwin, and Springside Chestnut Hill. The girls battled to a 6-6 record in Inter-Ac play.

Ice Hockey (8-4-1)

Wins against Germantown Academy, Springside Chestnut Hill, LaSalle College High School, and The Hill School fueled the successful season. The team played in the finals of the Independent Hockey League championship and lost in overtime against a talented Haverford School team. The season highlighted strong play from everyone on the roster.

Boys’ (13-2) and Girls’ (10-5) Squash

Boys Inter-Ac Champions

It was a successful season for EA squash. The girls played to 5th and the boys were 6th at the U.S. High School Championships. The boys also won the coveted Inter-Ac title for the first time since 2018 after a 5-4 nailbiter over Haverford.

Boys’ (3-3) and Girls’ (4-3) Swimming & Diving

From exhilarating meets and practices, the season was filled with remarkable achievements. At the Eastern Prep Championships and Inter-Ac meet, the girls swam to 7th place. The boys claimed 9th for an overall 6th place combined finish.

Boys’ & Girls’ Indoor Track & Field

Boys PTFCA Indoor State Champions

PTFCA Coach of the Year: Zach Richards, Hon. For the second consecutive year, the team won the state indoor track & field championship out of a field of 250 schools. The team set seven school records in the 60m, 200m, 400m, 3000m, High Jump, Triple Jump, and Shot Put. The girls’ team also had a strong season, placing 7th in the state meet. The girls set seven school records in the 60m, 200m, 55HH, 60HH, Long Jump, Triple Jump, and Pentathlon.

Wrestling (12-10)

The season was filled with individual tournaments and dual meets as the team landed in 3rd place in the Inter-Ac. The highlight of the season was a dramatic come-from-behind win over Haverford School in the final meet of the season. Twelve EA grapplers made it to the state tournament, with six earning medals. Captain Fernando Loor ’24 finished his EA career with 97 wins.

FROM THE SIDELINES Spring 2024

Two undefeated records, four state championships, five Inter-Ac Championships, 10 school records, and a City Championship highlight the spring athletic season. Follow @ea1785_athletics on Instagram for real-time updates throughout the year.

Baseball (15-11)

The season started with two out-of-conference wins against Holy Ghost Prep and La Salle College High School. During spring break play in Florida, the squad went 9-0 against teams from MA, NJ, and NY. The team won its first Inter-Ac game against Germantown Academy. There were multiple no-hitters, pitching shutouts, and outstanding play in the outfield.

Girls’ Golf (9-0)

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Girls’ golf wrapped up another undefeated season and edge out runner-up The Hill School to win the PAISAA tournament. Carter Yearley ’25 tied for 3rd in the individual competition with a 41, and Clarissa Leung ’25 finished 1st with a 37. The squad also won the Inter-Ac title for the 3rd consecutive year. Clarissa won both the InterAc and PAISAA individual championships and set an EA low score record, 32.

Boys’ Lacrosse (14-7)

The early part of the season saw wins over The Hill School, Academy of New Church, and The Hun School. The team tallied more wins in Inter-Ac play against Penn Charter, Springside Chestnut Hill, and Germantown Academy. Late in the season, the squad powered past St. Augustine Prep, which provided momentum for the PAISAA Tournament. The boys beat The Hill School to advance the finals against Westtown School, and ended the season as the state runner-up.

Girls’ Lacrosse (21-2)

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Girls’ lacrosse was crowned PAISAA champs after an intense game against Agnes Irwin School. The EA defense held off an aggressive AIS run to win the state title, 9-6. The squad also tallied its 6th consecutive Inter-Ac Championship. Captain Sydney Richter ’24

swiped her 300th career draw control, while Maura Irish ’25 and Quinn Whitaker ’25 scored their 100th career goals. The team is ranked #8 in the country and won the High School Lacrosse Championship over the summer.

Boys’ & Girls’ Rowing

Novice Boys 8+ City Champions

It was a successful rowing season, despite an especially rainy spring. The unfavorable conditions on the Schuylkill River made for a slow start, but every member of the team experienced the joy of winning races and the progress that comes from hard work. The Novice Boys’ 8+ rowed to 1st in the City Championships. The Boys’ Novice 4+ and the Novice Girls 8+ won bronze medals.

Softball (20-0)

Inter-Ac Champions

Inter-Ac MVP: Maddie Masiko ’25

Softball went undefeated on the season and won its 3rd consecutive Inter-Ac title. Pitcher Maddie Masiko tallied her 400th career strikeout and allowed only 12 runs, 8 earned. Sophia Santinelli ’26 led the offense, batting .617, on-base percentage of .658, and slugging percentage of 1.267. The team was dominant on both sides of the field, scoring 195 runs and allowing only 22. The team finished with a .376 batting average, .491 on-base percentage, and .589 slugging.

Boys’ Tennis (11-7)

It was a successful season for boys’ tennis. There were some match highlights, along with individual accomplishments, and the team finished 3rd in the Inter-Ac. This team will be remembered for always playing the right way. Their sportsmanship was outstanding throughout the season, and they always respected their opponents and the game of tennis.

Boys’ Track & Field

Delco Meet Champions

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Inter-Ac MVP: Dawson French ’24

Boys’ track and field won the Inter-Ac and PAISAA championships for the 3rd consecutive year. The 4x400m relay ran to 1st at The Penn Relays. School records were set in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 1600m, 3200m, and High Jump. The talented seniors tallied three Inter-Ac and PAISAA wins, and two Delco and Indoor State Championships during their years at EA.

Girls’ Track & Field

Inter-Ac Champions

PAISAA Champions

Inter-Ac MVP: Avery Elliott ’24

Inter-Ac MVP: Saige Forbes ’24

It was a momentous season for the girls’ track program, as the team notched the “double,” the Inter-Ac title (1st in nine years), and the PAISAA Championship (1st in eight years). The team was runner-up at the Delco Champs meet. Captains Avery Elliott and Saige Forbes ’24 leave behind 19 combined school records. Team records were set in the 100m, 100mHH, 4x100m relay, and High Jump. Eight runners qualified for the New Balance Nationals Outdoor Championships.

Stage&Studio

THE SPRING WAS PACKED WITH IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCES FROM STUDENTS OF ALL AGES.

The Domino Club presented Pippin in The Carrafiell Family Theater, a musical that follows the son of Charlemagne as he examines his inner self and the meaning of life. The Domino Club also celebrated seven Cappies nominations from its fall production of Metamorphoses, and Ellen Casey ’27 took home a prize for Featured Actress.

More than 40 cast and crew members in the Middle School Harlequin Ensemble entertained audiences with their production of In Birnam Wood, a shorter and more family-friendly version of Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

Campus was filled with beautiful sounds during many large concerts in Carrafiell Theater and smaller performances in the Class of 1944 Chapel and other venues. The talent that exudes from EA’s bands, orchestras, ensembles, and choral groups is truly remarkable.

Dr. Seuss and his whimsical characters came to life during the Lower School musical adventure Seussical KIDS. The 58-member cast and crew, comprised of 4th and 5th graders, transported audiences from the Jungle of Nool to the Circus McGurkus in this fun classic.

In Upper School, 30 students competed in the annual Dora Khayatt Music Competition. “This was an amazing group,” remarked Music Department Chair Jim Erwin, Hon. “The performances were judged by three professional musicians who were incredibly impressed.” Students in Middle and Upper School also won top awards at the annual Music in the Parks and PEMA festivals, and Jack Cellucci ’24 and Lucia Forte ’26 were selected for the annual American Choral Directors Association SSAA Honors Choir event.

The visual arts program continued to thrive this year. From EA’s youngest budding artists to accomplished Upper School students, talents were celebrated on a pictureperfect April afternoon during ArtsFest. Hallways and lobbies were transformed into colorful gallery spaces, and parents, grandparents, and friends descended on campus to take in the many impressive exhibits and performances.

Theo Vadot ’19 returned to campus with Open- Cumulative Works, an exhibit which included some his college pieces that helped him secure an internship with internationally renowned architecture firm Pei Cobb Freed & Partners in New York City.

Collective creativity shined in the CommUNITY exhibition as artists from all three divisions came together to unite in creative fun. The all-school exhibit featured nearly 500 8” x 8” pieces created by students, faculty, staff, trustees, alumni, and more—all unique in their own way.

Gracie O’Neill ’24 proudly shared her Lilley Advanced Independent Study work in her exhibit, Stripes on the GO. Her 25 black-andwhite images captured the emotion and heart-pounding action of EA student-athletes. “I chose that title because I tried to demonstrate EA sports through the athletes Living the Stripes. ‘On the GO’ is because of my name Gracie O’Neill,” smiled Gracie.

The creative sculptures of nine Upper School students from 3-D Design IV class were perched on pedestals in the gallery for a pop-up show, The Space Within. “When I saw how the pieces were coming together during the class assignment, I realized that their beautiful pieces could create a strong show,” said Art Teacher Hilary Hutchison, Hon.

AND THE OSCAR GOES TO…

Jennifer Lame ‘00 took the stage at the 96th Academy Awards on March 10 to accept the Oscar for Best Film Editing for the three-hour blockbuster hit, Oppenheimer. “I was terrified when I first got hired to work with you... and it felt like you took a huge risk on me, but you never made me feel that way,” she told director Christopher Nolan in her acceptance speech. “You instilled so much confidence in me, and I looked forward to going to work with you every day.” Her award was one of seven Oscar wins for the film. In a post-event interview with 6ABC’s Action News, Jennifer shared that she loves Episcopal and texted all night long with her “ride or die” Episcopal friends. She also recently earned a Critics’ Choice Award and a BAFTA for her work on Oppenheimer and was honored by Episcopal with the Alumni Achievement in the Arts Award in 2023.

Notes Class

SEND US YOUR NEWS

We love to hear from you! Submit your latest milestones, news, and updates to be included in a future issue of Connections. Visit episcopalacademy.org/classnotes.

A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER

More than 400 alumni joined together in May for Alumni Weekend. Festivities kicked off with a successful golf tournament, which benefits the Alumni Society Endowed Scholarship Fund. Members of the Class of 1974 commemorated their 50th reunion by spending a full day on campus and enjoying dinner together. The following day, the Alumni Society honored the 2024 Alumni Award winners and Athletic Hall of Fame inductees during a special ceremony, followed by a fun party on the Clark Campus Green, where classes ending in a 4 and 9 celebrated their milestone reunions. Save the date to join us on May 1-3, 2025!

2024 ALUMNI AWARD WINNERS

Distinguished Alumni Award

Mindy Menkowitz Scheier ‘89

Distinguished Service Award

Thomas V. Zug ‘64

Young Alumni Award

Zoe F. LaPalombara ‘09

Caitlin S. Powers ‘09

Alumni Community Service Award

Stephen P. Chawaga ‘76

Alumni Achievement in the Arts Award

Nicole M. Haddad ‘99

Athletic Hall of Fame Inductees

Kimberly Lowe McCalla ‘99

Todd Harrity ‘09

Taylor Trimble Harding ‘11

1999 Baseball Team

2014 Girls’ Spring Track & Field Team

Do you know an EA alum who exemplifies our values and has made outstanding contributions to their field, community, or the Academy?

Submit your nominations for our annual Alumni Awards, and help us celebrate the achievements and impact of our alumni!

Welcome, Class of 2024

Episcopal’s newest alumni were celebrated on June 6, 2024, as 134 seniors graduated during our school’s 239th Commencement Ceremony in the Class of 1944 Chapel. This year’s student speakers were Valedictorian Colin Schlitt and Salutatorian Brendan Schlitt, and the Class of 2024 shield was presented by Truth Lemke and Michael Woolery.

“While we are all different authors, our stories will share the moments that make Episcopal the extraordinary place that it is,” shared Brendan Schlitt. “The grit and passion we leave on the court, field, mat, track, river, or in the pool—these are the moments that define the Episcopal experience.”

“The most important aspect of our education does not come from the text of our books but from the words of wisdom bestowed by our teachers,” reflected Colin Schlitt. “Episcopal has taught us how to be respectful and wholeheartedly unselfish.”

1950s

1953

Nate Bachman reports that he appreciates his two years at EA. Of the five that attended Princeton from his class, he is the only one who remains. He has been an entrepreneur and venture capitalist, having worked for himself for some 30 years. He remains somewhat active today, dividing his time between Cincinnati and Sun Valley for four decades. After a serious bout of COVID-19 in 2023, he is grateful for life and health!

Bill Crockett is spending the summer at his home on Cape Cod and says that he “cherishes EA because our teachers cared about us.”

Lynne Graburn shared that he moved to Cedarhurst, a retirement home in Nicholasville, Kentucky, after a disabling fall back in Albany. He can now walk and talk, and is hoping to be fully recovered by the end of the summer so he can take advantage of his son’s large horse farm up the road. He is also looking forward to his upcoming 90th birthday in January.

Bill Hoffman checked in and says that he is alive and well, age adjusted.

Craig Moleski reports that he and Carol have just moved to assisted living in Wayzata, MN, and celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary.

Don Pillsbury celebrated his 90th birthday in May with a neighborhood bash and his 67th wedding anniversary with wife, Sue, in June. The pair enjoy good health, age adjusted. Don is also excited about a new great granddaughter, as well as the fact that he is finally on the air as a ham radio operator.

1959

Rowley Watson, Terry Davis, Hilton Smith, Sandy Stidham, Jr., Barlow Burke, Jr., and Dave Pillsbury gathered at Rowley’s Malvern home to celebrate their 65th reunion during Alumni Weekend. They also joined a Zoom meeting with Cecil Jones, Curt Wiler, Dave Riggs, and Stu Brown and discussed living behind the Iron Curtain and many other topics. They planned to have another Zoom call in September.

1960s

1961

Cappy Markle, Goose Clement, Brooks Bromley, Sam Chew, Ted Roosevelt, IV, Charles Chafee, and Pete Tremper held a mini 63rd reunion dinner at the Merion Cricket Club during Alumni Weekend 2024, joined by Connie Roosevelt, Lynn Chapman, and Anne Markle. It was a very pleasant surprise to have Ted and his lovely wife, Connie, visit from New York and have their first tour of the campus, as well as join his classmates for dinner. A good time was had by all.

1962

Bob Stavers, Parker Waite, and George Emlen had an impromptu get-together at Parker’s home in Sedgwick, ME. Bob, who lives on Puget Sound, was on a photo odyssey in Canada and Maine with his photographer buddies and gave Parker a call. Parker then called George, who lives up the road in Blue Hill. The three artists—a photographer, a woodcut artist, and a musician—were surrounded and inspired by Parker’s amazing work, including a pile of gorgeous rhythm bones he created.

1964

Warren Cooke, Colin Hanna, Mike McIntire, Kirk Woodbury, Eric Alessandroni, John Carty, Peter Bengtson, Tom Zug, Jack MacNeish, Lew Staples, Nick Crowell, Ted Watson, John Miller, David Trainer, and friend Jeff Colen ’65 met to celebrate their 60th reunion this spring at Tom’s Gladwyne home.

Colin Hanna and his wife, Pricie, took the trip of their lifetime visiting Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand on a four-week voyage aboard the Queen Elizabeth. Their favorite part was sailing on the 80-ft America’s Cup yacht NZ-41 in Auckland in 30 knots of steady breeze!

1965

CORRECTION: Please note that Ralph Pitman’s last name was misspelled in our Winter 2024 Class Notes. Our sincerest apologies to Mr. Pitman.

1968

David Fenimore, Alden Kent, Bob Mayock, and Sam White, along with their partners, celebrated the 161st anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg with a multi-day excursion where they reenacted the class trip that at least one of them remembers taking in the 1960s with legendary EA teacher and librarian Tony Ridgway ’34†. Highlights included the horse-drawn carriage tour with a professional guide, Luci Kent’s addictive party mix, and their raucous farewell dinner deep in the cellar of an 18th-century pub.

1969

To commemorate their milestone 55th reunion year, the Class of 1969 gathered for dinner. In attendance were Chuck Hitschler, John Colehower, John Duesing, Tom Barton, Tom Welsh, Dirk Smith, Tom Forster-Smith, Peter Hickok, John Voorhees, Greg Lewicki, Jeff Burdick, John Bryfogle, Mike Boyajian, Orton Jackson (Q), Dick Owen, and Nick Lefevre

1970s

1971

Jay Aikens, Vince Imbriglia, Fred Dittmann, Rod Platt, Mark Cornish, John Donaldson, Tom Williams, Don Cooke, and Don Wynne met for lunch at Minella’s Diner in Wayne.

1972

Dick Galbally and his wife, Mary, moved to The Villages in central Florida in July 2023. He keeps busy by golfing, swimming, and playing softball. Together, they have been attending classes on Florida wildlife, hearing from various political speakers, and occasionally traveling back up north.

1973

Jack Kulp retired in May 2023 after 50 years in broadcasting, 40 of which were spent hosting morning radio shows in San Francisco. “I loved the work,” he said, “but the 3:45 a.m. wake-ups got tiring after a while. I’m now sleeping in until 6 a.m.!” He now does freelance voiceover work from his home studio, just north of San Francisco. He and his wife, Kim, also spent an amazing two and a half weeks in Thailand, where they visited one of the local elephant rescue parks.

Classmates and friends for life Bill Clark, Graham Harkins, and Peter Beller try to meet once a month, and this June was no different, when the trio met for lunch in Keene, NH.

1974

Twenty-five members of the Class of 1974 had a beautiful dinner at The Porch at Lowry House in celebration of their 50th reunion, where they presented Greville Haslam Head of School Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. with a class gift of $230K+ to support three different endowed scholarship funds.

Members of the Class of 1979 gathered at Autograph Brasserie in Wayne for their Friday Night reunion party. In attendance were Ned Lee, Tom Howe, Bill Lloyd, Don Blenko, John Decker, John Watson, Jones Toland, Chris Young, Corbett Hall, Bill MacIntosh, Jim Young, John Muir, Bill Gordon, Shawn Pender, Bill McAvoy, Tucker Van Dyck, Cole Vastine, Jay Canuso, and Chris Miller. Autograph Brasserie is a Fearless Restaurant owned by restaurateur and classmate Marty Grims.

1980s

1981

Benjamin B. Olshin retired from his job as an academic but still likes talking about history, philosophy, and other subjects. Trying to get beyond the confines of university life, he’s been invited as a guest on a few podcasts over the past several years. He was especially surprised recently when the producer of a local podcast was wearing an EA sweatshirt! Aidan Thornbury ’16, with host Aidan Mattis, runs a very entertaining podcast called The Lore Lodge, which deals with popular history, folklore, mythology, and other intriguing narratives.

1982

Members of the Class of 1982 gathered to pay their respects to their late classmate Mike D’Alicandro† on June 22. In attendance were John Hill, Bob Kunik, John Voigt, Jr., Jim Kerr, Peter Gregory, Fritz Denlinger, Trupert Ortlieb, Sr., Bill Bagnell, H. Brooke McMullin, Jr., and Kurt Haab

1984

The Class of 1984 had a fantastic time during Alumni Weekend. Thirty-one people attended the Phillies game on Friday night and more than 50 participated in the class gathering at the Berwyn Tavern on Saturday night.

Karl Mayro celebrated 35 years in real estate in November 2023 and has

loved helping many EA faculty, staff, and alumni throughout this time.

Greg Morley wrote a book! Sharing his professional and personal experiences, and even an EA story or two, BOND: Belonging and the Keys to Inclusion and Connection is now available. He will host events later in the year in Philadelphia, other U.S. cities, Europe, and Asia to share more. Stay tuned to gregmorley.com!

1986

Nina (Castro) Owens was named one of the Top 100 Women in FinTech 2024 (#34). She works with her customers on challenges they face at the intersection of payments, risk, technology, and innovation. She and her husband, Jim, live in New York City, and their three children, William, Celine, and Harrison, attend the University of Chicago. In their free time, Nina and Jim enjoy having time to find new restaurants again.

Amy Korman has a new series under the pen name Allie Mahoney. Dame Alice Hits Hollywood, a 1930s mystery, is now available for Amazon Kindle. Her previous mystery book series, Killer Wasps, is available in both paperback and digital.

Paul Landaiche and his wife, Katie Flaherty, hosted Paul’s Class of 1989 classmates at their Devon home for a reunion party during Alumni Weekend. Those in attendance included Tom DeVirgilius, Nancy (White) Bathurst, Kristen (Cirelli) Stowe, Michael Rose, Ralph Sando, Kim Tinari, Chris Bozzi ’90 (Q), Andrew Saland, Alla Frenkel Pasternack, Jennifer (Capuzzi) Lista, Mindy (Menkowitz) Scheier, Andrew Gerardi, Raahsahn Bowden, Brett McGovern, Carolyn (Graham) Shaud, Charlie Moleski, Janine Sisak, Rocco Gallelli, Charles Simonian, Stephanie Baum (Q), Stacia (Burk) Halfpenny, Matt Schaeffer, Matt Luber, Terry MacNeish, Mark Mangan, Lars Beck, Mike Bartel, Caroline Waxler, Erin (O’Brien) Dugery, and Jennifer (Finan) Harbert. Many class members also enjoyed attending the All-Alumni Tent Party during Alumni Weekend.

Alla Frenkel Pasternack and her children, Zoe ’18, Max ’20, and Shelby ’24, recently dedicated the office of the Director of Financial Aid through a generous philanthropic gift. Now a permanent fixture outside the office, the plaque bears the inscription: “There is nothing more gratifying

than the gift of an education.” This dedication is a lasting tribute to the Pasternack family’s commitment to education and their enduring legacy at EA. (Alla’s husband, Todd Kendall, is also pictured.)

Kim Tinari’s company, Rowland Personnel, located in Newtown Square, has added a new service program! In addition to working with Philadelphia area businesses to assist with their staffing needs, they are offering GetHired! Interview Prep Coaching program. Rowland Personnel works with high school and college students as well as recent college grads and career changers to hone their interviewing skills to confidently navigate their career journey. For more information, visit RowlandPersonnel.com

1990s

1993

The Undercurrent, a novel by Sarah (Pearcy) Sawyer, published by Zibby Books, will be released in October. In the book’s acknowledgements, Sarah credits Episcopal for challenging and nurturing her as a writer and thanks teachers John Powell, III ’70 and Phil Spear, Hon. (Sarah is pictured alongside author Chris Whitaker.)

1994

Members of the Class of 1994 reminisced about old times and

good memories at Great American Pub in Wayne. Many class members also gathered on campus during Alumni Weekend.

1997

Heidi Watson and Dean Vetsikas ’98 caught up briefly before the first pitch at game 1 of the 2023 NLCS to cheer for the Phillies.

1999

There’s no party like a Brill party! Members of the Class of 1999 had a blast for the ages at the Bala Cynwyd home of Aaron Brill and his wife, Meredith.

2000s

2001

Dr. Shaheen Shafagh married Dr. Haley Ciccarelli on December 8, 2023, at the Don CeSar in St. Petersburg, FL. In attendance were his siblings, Ramin Shafagh ’03 and Dr. Jasmine Shafagh ’04

2002

Jake McKeon continues to work as the Director of Player Development and Assistant Director of PlayFast Lacrosse Programs at NXTsports. He and his wife, Heather (Muir) McKeon ’04, share four children, two of whom are current EA students.

2003

Ramin Shafagh married Gina Kantor on April 6, 2024, at the Ritz Carlton in Philadelphia. EA alumni in attendance included Nick Dormans, Roger Syracuse, Jr., Erik Lambertsen, Mike Lamb, Dr. Shaheen Shafagh ’01, Dr. Jasmine Shafagh ’04, Mark Vakil ’01, and Francisco Uribe

Tucker Crockett moved back to the Philadelphia area with his wife, Karla, after living in Washington, D.C. Their children, Lulu and Kiely, started at EA in September.

2004

Members of the Class of 2004 got together during Alumni Weekend at Dock Street Brewery South, hosted by Renata (Certo-Ware) Vesey, for an evening of fun. In attendance were Ashley (Battista) Ridolfi, Caitlin (Gondek) Checchio, Kate (O’Donnell) Heinig, Jennifer (Robinson) Tierney, Becky (Cox) Barrett, Hannah Kelly, Whitney Petrosa, Lexi Miller, Samantha McKeon, Zosia (Dziembowska)

Harkins, Fran Grunde, Spiro Floratos, Mark Adelberg, Kajal Alemo, Matt Surprenant, Susie Talbot, Mike Contino, Nick Brown, Leland Laury, Bill Tierney, Paul Barrett, and Rich Clark

Ashley (Battista) Ridolfi and her husband, Anthony, welcomed their first child, Anthony Remington “Remy” Ridolfi, on September 13, 2023.

Sam Rogers just returned from his first trip to England (only racking up £1,000 in damages to his rental car from a side-of-road mishap with foliage). He lives outside of Washington, D.C., with his wife, Veronica, and their three children (ages 11, 9, and 3) and has been hoping to duplicate English gardens in his own backyard, yet already falling short after only a couple of weeks. He is enjoying a summer break from helping his oldest tackle 5th grade math, for which he has reached out to classmate Richie Clark for help when his wife, the normal math presence, was unreachable on a business trip before the due date.

Dr. Jasmine Shafagh snapped this adorable photo of her two children, Dara Ryan and Roya Lily Ghaneie, in their EA sweaters!

Renata (Certo-Ware) Vesey and her husband, Tristan, welcomed their son, Archer Valentino (Archie), on Valentine’s Day. His big brother Winston has been showing him the ropes at home. Renata heads up Dock Street Brewery, her family’s nearly 40-year-old craft brewpub, alongside her brother Sasha CertoWare ’07, who, in addition to the family business, runs his own construction company.

2005

Brooke White is staying busy as a working actress who uses the stage name Brooke Hutton. Her recent film Microwave Coven was nominated for Best Science Fiction/Fantasy Film at The Burbank International Film and the LA Shorts Film Festivals. It was also featured in the Las Vegas International Film & Screenwriting Festival and earned nominations for Best Dark Comedy Film Award in the Oregon Short Film and Los Angeles Indie Film Festivals.

2006

Billy Bagnell (pictured with Bill Bagnell ‘82) and his wife, Katy, were blessed with a baby girl, Beatrice Grace Bagnell, on April 22, 2024.

Colleen McKenna and her husband, Michael Niles, welcomed Elliott McKenna Niles on October 20, 2023. He joins big brother Finn.

2007

Annie Madeira and her husband, Jack Maine, welcomed their first child, Eleanor Davie Maine, on June 6. The couple had a beautiful wedding in Northeast Harbor, ME, in September 2023 with many EA alumni in attendance, including Nicole Spagnola, Max Crockett, Ashley St. John (Q), Julia (Clark) Martin, Kiff Le Vine, Gary Madeira ’72, Steve Madeira ’78, Megan (McFarland) Krouse, Will Madeira ’04 (Q), and Ben Haack (Q)

Mike Nealis and his wife, Cristina Morgan-Nealis, welcomed their daughter, Alejandra “Allie’’ Amaia Nealis, on April 27 in Hong Kong. Mike has been teaching all over the world for the last 13 years in the U.S., U.K. (with Mindy Hong, Hon. as his boss and Tanuja Murray, Hon. as a colleague), China, and now in Hong Kong as a high school math teacher at King George V, an international school, for the last five years. He still keeps in touch regularly with Matt Sheehan, Mike McNulty ’09, Ryan Klein ’09, and Mike Herron ’98 He has also maintained an ongoing group chat with classmates Dan Gillespie, Luke Miller, and Shane Isdaner since graduation.

2009

Members of the Class of 2009 met up at the All-Alumni Tent Party during Alumni Weekend, including Martina McPhail, Bryant Myers, Olivia Wayne, Zoe LaPalombara (with husband Michael Poznansky), and Hannah LaPalombara

2010s

2010

W. Chase Hamilton and his wife, Hannah, welcomed their second child, Elsie Margaret Hamilton, on March 23. Chase graduated from his anesthesiology residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in June and moved to Bethlehem, PA, to begin working as an anesthesiologist for Anesthesia Specialists of Bethlehem in the St. Luke’s University Health Network.

Bruce Leto, Jr. and his company, Dynamic Wave Consulting, partnered with fellow EA alum Joseph Scullin, director of operations at Matrix Medical Communications, LLC, to redesign and rebrand their business website with search engine optimization capabilities.

Synae Allen enjoyed a surprise engagement party alongside friends Amber Davis ’12, Shanika (Griffiths) Dukes ’10, and Angeliqué Israel ’07

2012

Hunter McMullin, III married Haley Richter in Cape May, NJ, on May 20, 2023. Three generations of EA graduates were in attendance, including H. Brooke McMullin, Jr. ’82, Hunter B. McMullin ‘58† , Scott McMullin ’85, Tess McMullin ’18, Jon Hamilton ’82, Kurt Haab ’82, Bill Hompe ’82, Chris Hopkins ’82, Connor McCann ’12, Norman McAvoy, Jr. ’78, Connor Haab, Scott Cikowski, Jack Eldridge, Jon Garino, Jr., Nolan Rinnier, Zach Roberson, Burk Fitzpatrick, Brendan Welsh ’06, Drew Peters, Julian O’Neill, Jay Farrell, IV, Morgan Westby, Zach Caraher, Gerry Smith, IV ’10, Jeff Stern, and Marco Testaiuti, III

2014

Members of the Class of 2014 gathered for a happy hour at Graffiti Bar in Philadelphia for their Friday night party during Alumni Weekend 2024.

James Konopka is the head rowing coach at Malvern Preparatory School and has been coaching the USRowing Under-23 National Team for three consecutive summers.

Antoinette “Toni” Radcliffe and James Capik were married at the Radcliffes’ farm in Malvern on June 1. The newly married couple happily resides in South Philadelphia, where they like to attend punk rock concerts and take their French bulldog, Sashimi, for walks in Dickinson Square Park.

2016

Bailey Decker graduated from Long Island University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in May and began her first job as an equine veterinarian in June.

Matt Freese ’17 and AJ Marcucci ’17 are long-time teammates and friends who both play professionally for Major League Soccer. AJ, goalie for the New York Red Bulls, is currently on loan to Finland’s IF Gnistan and was a three-year starter at Connecticut College. Matt Freese launched his professional career in Philadelphia as a “homegrown” player with the Philadelphia Union after playing at Harvard University. He now is in goal for New York City FC. During an entertaining conversation, AJ and Matt talk with EA Unlocked host Dr. T.J. Locke, Hon. about their days at EA and life on the professional circuit.

Search for EA Unlocked wherever you access your favorite podcasts or scan the QR code to listen.

Charlie Malone married Anna Katherine Baldwin on June 15, in Charleston, SC. Harrison Malone ’19, Mary Beth Malone P ’16 ’19, and Bill Bagnell ’82 attended the wedding.

2019

The Class of 2019 came out in full force to the All-Alumni Tent Party during 2024 Alumni Weekend.

Caroline Kelly finished her collegiate field hockey career at Boston College in fall 2023 on a high note, earning All-League honors in the ACC as a goalie.

Theo Vadot returned to EA last year to host a special exhibit, OpenCumulative Works, in the Crawford Campus Center Gallery. The exhibit featured his pieces from architecture school, along with some sculptures from his time at EA. Hear more about Theo’s arts journey on the EA Unlocked podcast (scan above for episode).

2020s

2020

Lily Buckley graduated Summa Cum Laude from Syracuse University with a degree in accounting,

business analytics, and supply chain management. She was selected from the Martin J. Whitman School of Management to represent her senior class as the class marshal and spoke at the Whitman Convocation Ceremony in the Dome. Additionally, she was recognized by Poets & Quants as one of the Best & Brightest Business Undergraduates in the Nation. This fall, she will be starting a job in consulting at FTI Consulting in New York City.

2024

Friends from the Class of 2024— Grace McHugh, Jenna Morley, Gracie O’Neill, Lainey McGonagle, Rachel Lederman, Sage Ingle, Paige McMeekin, Shelby Pasternack, Bella Notaro, Sydney Richter, and Hannah Neilly—celebrated their enduring friendship and cherished time at EA with a heartfelt photo shoot. Donning their college t-shirts, they proudly showcased the next chapter of their journeys.

Channing Wells was among six 2024 graduates honored for their completion of the Philadelphia Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated’s Achievement Academy, where he learned valuable life skills and participated in mentorship and community engagement, among other program initiatives.

It’s a family affair! Members of the Class of 2024 posed for a photo with their alumni, honorary alumni, and trustee family members ahead of the 12th Grade Family Eucharist in the Class of 1944 Chapel. Pictured: Bella Notaro, Mark Notaro, Hon., Connor Shanahan (with EA Trustee Julieann Shanahan), Gavin Schmidt (with EA Trustee Calvin Schmidt), Shaw Huston, Scott Huston ’91, Joe DuBarry ’63, Paige McMeekin, Andrew McMeekin ’91, Heather (Flick) McMeekin ’91, Alex Barrist, Adam Barrist ’94, Shelby Pasternack, Alla Frenkel Pasternack ’89, Sydney Richter, James Richter ’86, Kim (Zinman) Richter ’88, Sarah Memmo, Matt Memmo, Hon., Liam Blair, James Siegel, II ’52, Rod Siegel ’62, Jake Manion, Sean Manion ’93, Eric Demyun, and Mario Mascioli ’78

In Memoriam

Celia W. Creskoff, Hon.

Celia Welsh Creskoff passed away on November 10, 2023. Born in 1942 at the Philadelphia Naval Hospital, she was the daughter of Dorothy I. Murphy and Henry C. Welsh, Jr. of Merion, PA. Celia attended the Convent of the Sacred Heart Overbrook, Sacred Heart Montreal, Newton College, and Rosemont College, where she earned a degree in history. She obtained a Master’s in Education from the University of Pennsylvania in 1966. Celia had a distinguished career in education, teaching history in the School District of Philadelphia and at the Country Day School of the Sacred Heart. She then spent 23 years at The Episcopal Academy as the Associate Director of College Guidance. Celia was known for her warm heart, generous spirit, quick wit, and zest for life. She believed in filling one’s “memory bank” with joyful and interesting experiences, and she lived by this philosophy, inspiring many others. Celia is survived by her husband of 52 years, Lewis G. Creskoff; her children, Daniel F. Creskoff (Becky) and Katharine C. Garvey ’95 (Matthew); her grandchildren, Thomas and Joya Creskoff, and Luke, Isabel, and Colin Garvey; and her close friend, Nancy Fredericks Joyce. She is predeceased by her brothers, Henry C. Welsh, III and Richard T. Welsh.

Carol M. Pendergrass

Carol Minster Pendergrass passed away peacefully at Waverly Heights in Gladwyne, PA, on November 8, 2023, at the age of 94. A graduate of Grier School and Centenary College, Carol taught at The Episcopal Academy before marrying James “Jim” Paxton Roberts in 1950. They raised three children and enjoyed summers in Maine and skiing in Colorado, Utah, and Europe. Jim Roberts passed away in 1992. Carol remarried Dr. Henry Pancoast Pendergrass in 1994. They cherished family time and extensive travel until Henry’s death in 2008. A dedicated community member, Carol was active at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, and served on the boards of The Mainline Adult Day Care Center, Bryn Mawr Hospital Foundation, and the Women’s Board. She also volunteered at the Devon Horse Show and was involved with the Philadelphia Orchestra, The Junior League of Philadelphia, and Merion Cricket Club. Carol is survived by her children, Yardly Roberts Jenkins of Rosemont, PA, and Frank Roberts of Arlington, VA; her sonin-law Scott Jenkins, daughter-in-law Erin Hogan, three grandchildren, Katie Jenkins Stockel (Dan), Sarah Jenkins Quevedo (Jorge), and Miles Roberts; and two greatgrandchildren. Her son, James Paxton “Pax” Roberts, Jr., predeceased her in 2010.

Nancy K. Pope, Hon.

Nancy Kepler Pope passed away on April 18, 2024, at her home in West Palm Beach, FL, surrounded by her loving family. Born on June 6, 1940, in Philadelphia to Mary Ellen and Jacob W. Kepler, she graduated from The Stevens School, Penn State University, and Villanova University, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Education. Nancy was an elementary school teacher for many years, concluding her career with 10 years at Episcopal Academy. Nancy married William Hayes Pope, Jr. on March 5, 1966, in Bryn Mawr, and they celebrated 58 years of marriage. They shared a love of travel and enjoyed numerous trips worldwide. After raising her family in Villanova, Nancy spent the last 25 years in West Palm Beach, FL, where she made many new friends and enjoyed an active lifestyle, including golf and pilates. Known for her generous nature, kind heart, and bawdy sense of humor, she will be missed by her countless friends. Nancy is survived by her devoted husband, William Hayes Pope, Jr.; her son, William Hayes Pope, III ’86; her daughter-in-law, Beth Rodgers Pope; and her three grandsons, Nicholas George Pope, Brian William Pope, and Thomas Hayes Pope. She was immensely proud of her family, especially her grandsons.

Edith H. Rowland, Hon.

Edith H. Rowland passed away peacefully at Paoli Hospital in Paoli, on September 6, 2023, at the age of 85. Born in Greenville, SC, to Theodore and Edith Hill, she grew up in Lancaster with her twin sister, Sally, and older brother, Ted. Edith graduated from Arcadia University and earned an associate degree in physical therapy from Harcum College. Edith was a dedicated educator, teaching physical education and health for more than 20 years at The Episcopal Academy. A skilled tennis player and swimmer, she coached swimming for more than 40 years and certified many in lifesaving and CPR. She shared a love of the performing arts with her late husband, David, and was involved in the Chester County Choral Society and Sunshine Singers. Edith is remembered as a loving, generous mother, wife, grandmother, and aunt. She is survived by her sons, Hobart ’84 and David ’91; foster son Jim Chambers; daughters-in-law, Kimberly and Paige; and grandchildren, Sophia and Kalen.

Betsy Morgan

A wonderful friend of EA, Elizabeth T. “Betsy” Morgan (nee Trudeau), age 78, of Wayne, PA, Vero Beach, FL, and Deer Isle, ME, passed away on January 8, 2024. Born in Philadelphia in 1945, she was the daughter of the late Edmund and Barbara Higham (nee Winner) Trudeau. Betsy attended The Shipley School and St. Margaret’s School, Tappahannock, VA. She went to Middlebury College, VT, and graduated from UC Berkeley, CA.

Betsy was involved with the Philadelphia Zoo, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the P.E.O. Sisterhood, and the Pi Beta Phi International Women’s Fraternity. She volunteered at The Episcopal Academy, Sedgely Club Boathouse, and the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America. Elizabeth was a member of the Junior League of Philadelphia, the Union League, Merion Golf Club, St. David’s Golf Club, Island Country Club, and the Moorings Club. In her free time, she enjoyed reading and encouraged her family to do the same. Betsy was beloved as a bridge partner and admired for her needlepoint artistry. Betsy also loved animals and was especially devoted to her dogs. Betsy was the beloved wife of Howard Morgan; loving mother of Howard Randall “Randy” Morgan, Jr. (Lynn), Carl Gissler “Chip” Morgan (Kathleen), and Anna Morgan Cassidy ’94; and adoring grandmother of Natalie, Daniel, Kate, Georgia, and Justin Morgan, and Tyler and Auden Cassidy.

Edith “Edie” Robb Dixon

One of EA’s most well-known benefactors, Edith Robb Dixon, passed away on May 18, 2024, at the age of 91, following a brief and sudden illness. She was blessed to have lived a remarkable life with family and friends. A born-and-bred Philadelphian, she spent time in Winter Harbor, ME, and Palm Beach, FL, but Philadelphia was always home.

Along with her husband, Fitz Eugene Dixon, Jr. ’42 (d. 2006), she was active in the communities in which she lived, attending sports events and charity functions, working on Boards, and volunteering. Upon her husband’s passing, she took an even more active role on many Boards, assuming the Chairmanship of some. She was always ready to give her wellthought-out opinion and lead with knowledge, passion, and determination. She remained active on the Boards of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Abington Jefferson Hospital, the Society of the Four Arts in Palm Beach, the Schoodic Institute at Acadia National Park, and the Hill at Whitemarsh. Edith was a true philanthropist, and her generosity expressed a love for family, friends, and the thoughtfully chosen organizations, which included The Episcopal Academy. In 2014, Edie established the Dixon Robb Scholarship Fund at EA, which has supported three outstanding students and will continue to benefit students for generations. Edith was also passionate about her faith and was an active member of St. Paul’s Church in Philadelphia, Bethesda-by-the-Sea in Palm Beach, and St. Christopher’s-by-the-Sea in Winter Harbor, ME. Edith is survived by her brother, David B. Robb ’54 (Patricia); her children George Dixon (Judith) and Ellin Miller (Bruce); grandchildren Christopher Dixon (Karen), Sarah Dixon, and Hilary Spandorfer (Robert); and four great-grandchildren.

In Memoriam

Rush T. Haines, II ’61

A pillar of the EA community, Rush Haines ’61 passed away early on June 22, 2024, after a valiant fight against cancer. Rush was born in Lansdowne, PA, on April 2, 1943, to C. Robert and Mildred (nee Tapper) Haines.

After graduating from The Episcopal Academy in 1961, Rush received a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University in 1965 and then a law degree from Northwestern University School of Law in 1968. He was admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar in 1969 and joined Drinker Biddle & Reath that same year. Rush had a formidable legal career, which began to take clear shape when he was involved in both the Penn Central and Martin Decker bankruptcies as a young lawyer. Becoming a partner, Rush quickly rose to the top of his specialty in practice, demonstrated by his success within the firm, the breadth and number of high-profile clients he served, and by the frequent lectures he delivered for the Pennsylvania Bar Institute, the Pennsylvania Land Title Association, and other continuing legal education organizations.

Rush was a member of EA’s Board of Trustees for 20 years, serving as chair for a number of board committees and subsequently as Secretary, Vice Chair, and then Chairman of the Board from 1999 to 2005. Rush’s impact on fundraising at EA was felt as early as 1990, when he served for three years as the co-chair of the “Thresholds” capital campaign that funded major additions to the Devon Campus and the Science Building at Merion. He was active on the search committee that brought Ham Clark, Hon. to Episcopal as Head of School, and he was honored with EA’s Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2005. Rush served as an Emeritus Trustee from 2005 until his death.

At a critical juncture in Episcopal’s history, no person had a greater impact on the school’s ability to change the course of its future than Rush Haines. As the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Rush led the school in the acquisition of the land in Newtown Square and the ensuing challenges of planning, fundraising, building, and moving The Episcopal Academy to its current location. With his extensive legal knowledge, he was instrumental in negotiating with St. Joseph’s University, Newtown Township, and various other entities to make the move possible. Rush made incredible sacrifices in his latter professional career to serve Episcopal with virtually his full attention and selfless contributions of time, energy, and expertise. EA is deeply indebted to him, and we extend our deepest sympathy to his entire family.

Rush also was Past President of the Coopertown Civic Association and The Princeton Club of Philadelphia. He was active in the Princeton Alumni Council and had served as President of his Princeton Class of 1965.

Rush leaves behind his beloved wife, Susie; their daughter, Jen Haines Butler ’88 (Christopher) and three grandchildren, Monty, Annabelle, and Madeline; his sister Helen Haines Thieler (Edward); his brothers-in-law John Boothby, Rick Cirillo (Leann), Joseph Cirillo (Maryann); and his nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father C. Robert Haines, his mother Mildred Haines, and his sister Jeannette Haines Boothby.

Alumni

1944 Robert W. DeCoursey March 23, 2024

1945 Gerald P. Kynett, Jr. May 24, 2022

1947 John L. Dale January 17, 2024

1947 John M. Hume March 26, 2024

1948 Lawrence M. Austin December 1, 2023

1948 Moorhead C. Kennedy, Jr. May 3, 2024

1948 Clark D. Stull, Jr. May 17, 2024

1949 Daniel A. Baugh February 9, 2024

1952 Herbert F. Hoffman, Jr. January 8, 2024

1953 Harrison Owen March 16, 2024

1954 Birchard T. Clothier June 29, 2024

1955 Walter W. Buckley, Jr. October 30, 2023

1955 Arthur Hacker November 17, 2023

1955 Richard C. Walling, Sr. January 29, 2024

1956 Norman Vadner August 2024

1956 Rev. Joseph T. Webb, III January 21, 2024

1957 H. Ross Watson, Jr. ‘57 August 24, 2024

1958 Jay B. Davis July 25, 2024

Walter W. Buckley, Jr. ’55

It is with enormous sadness that we said goodbye to loyal alumnus Walter W. Buckley, Jr. ’55, who passed away on October 30, 2023, at his home in New York City.

Following his 1955 graduation from Episcopal, Walter attended The Lawrenceville School and then proceeded to Cornell University where he earned his B.A. in American History in 1960 and M.B.A. from Cornell’s Johnson School in January 1962. His ongoing career included two years on Wall Street, four years in Philadelphia as a financial analyst and investment manager with a private coal company, then to Bethlehem where he became Chairman of Bethlehem Steel Pension Fund trustees and its internally managed pension fund. In 1987, he established an investment management company with which he remained fully engaged for more than 30 years.

In 1999, at the encouragement of his good friend and then Head of School

Jay Crawford ’57, Walter launched the Buckley Scholars Fund. This fund provides financial aid and summer enrichment opportunities to talented students who otherwise could not afford to attend Episcopal. In its almost 25 years of existence, the Buckley Scholars Fund has supported nearly 80 students, with 15 Upper School scholars during the 2023-2024 school year.

Along with sharing his strong belief in the importance of robust financial assistance for students, Walter was an ardent supporter of the power of endowment for Episcopal. Walter’s early advice to be unrelenting in our pursuit of endowment gifts—which would ensure financial stability for generations—became Episocpal’s north star as the endowment campaign developed. Over the years, Walter invested in important programs that enrich the Episcopal experience for all students, establishing endowment funds for the North Carolina Outward Bound program for our ninth graders (in honor of his wife, Marjorie) and the Walter W. Buckley, Jr. ’55 American History Annual Lecture Series, as well as supporting the Lilley Fellowship Fund in memory of his dear friend Bill Lilley ’55 and unrestricted endowment. In addition to investing heavily in the endowment, Walter contributed to The Episcopal Fund at the highest levels for many years. Walter’s gifts to the endowment and annual giving over the course of his life set him apart as EA’s most generous donor to the school.

Walter served as an EA Trustee from 1974 to 1980. Episcopal honored him with the prestigious 1785 Bowl in 2000 and the Distinguished Service to EA Award in 2013. He was a co-chair of the endowment campaign when it originated in 2011.

He was predeceased by his sister, Mary Florence Bradbeer. He is survived by his four children, Walter White Buckley, III ’78 (Susan) and Brooke Ashforth (Thomas), children with his first wife (1959-69) Sally Chapman; Alexandra Buckley Voris (Michael) and Robert Edgar Florence Buckley (Milano); eleven grandchildren (including Alexa ’10 and Dutch ’14) and his wife of 48 years, Marjorie Bryan Buckley. His most joyful role in life was that of father and grandfather.

The 1955 Tabula description of Walter ends: “His smiling face, thundering footsteps, and jovial temperament will be around the Academy long after he has left.” A more apt note could not be written. He will be greatly missed by all of us.

Honorary Alumni & Former Faculty

1961 Rush T. Haines, II June 22, 2024

1961 Martin A. Snyder February 11, 2024

1961 Charles H. Wight, III April 17, 2024

1967 Nicholas S. Lippincott April 13, 2024

1973 Gerald A. Holleran, Jr. September 14, 2024

1977 Frederick Z. Levis April 18, 2024

1980 Allan Fenton Tompkins ‘80 July 17, 2024

1982 Michael A. D’Alicandro June 16, 2024

1989 William M. Walker, III January 17, 2024

Celia W. Creskoff November 10, 2023

Carol M. Pendergrass November 8, 2023

Nancy Pope April 18, 2024

Edith H. Rowland September 6, 2023

This list represents notifications that The Episcopal Academy received through mid-September 2024.

Archives From the

Celebrating EA Olympians, Now & Then

As the EA community celebrates the four alumni who participated in the 2024 Paris Olympics, let’s take a look back at several other alumni have competed in past Olympic Games.

Donald Lippincott, Class of 1911, earned two medals in the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, winning silver in the 200m and bronze in the 100m.

David McMullin, III, Class of 1925, played on the Men’s Field Hockey team in the 1932 Los Angeles Games and the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. McMullin’s ’32 team won the bronze and marked the first appearance at the Olympics by the U.S. National Men’s Team. With only three teams competing, the U.S. lost to India and Japan. In the 1936 games, the team placed 11th.

Retired EA Athletic Director Gina Buggy, Hon. competed with USA Field Hockey in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. The squad won the bronze after a penalty shootout against Australia. The ’84 team is the last U.S. field hockey team to boast an Olympic medal.

The Episcopal Academy

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Alumni Weekend: May 1-3, 2025

We invite all alumni to join us this spring. We can’t wait to celebrate special reunions for classes ending in 0 and 5!